What is a normal characteristic of normocytic anemia?

Normocytic anemia is characterized by red blood cells that are of normal size but are present at reduced numbers, resulting in decreased hemoglobin levels. In this condition, the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) remains within the normal range, usually between 80 and 100 fL. This is why stating that hemoglobin is within normal limits is a key characteristic of normocytic anemia; it highlights that, although the anemia exists, the cells themselves are of normal morphology and size.

If there is mention of MCV being high or low, it might imply either macrocytic or microcytic anemia, respectively, which are distinct conditions from normocytic anemia. Additionally, the causes of normocytic anemia vary and typically are related to conditions such as chronic disease or acute blood loss, rather than vitamin deficiencies, which are more commonly associated with microcytic or macrocytic anemia. Thus, the assertion that hemoglobin is within normal limits aligns with the defining characteristics of normocytic anemia, which differentiates it from other forms of anemia that feature deviations in cell size or hemoglobin concentration.